Chief Purchasing Officer - #141029

Western Carolina University; Cullowhee (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Carolina University is seeking a Chief Purchasing Officer to lead the purchasing and payments department. This permanent full-time role is located on-site in Cullowhee, North Carolina.

The successful candidate will direct all procurement activities, supervise staff, and ensure compliance with relevant laws, while applying strategic sourcing practices. An undergraduate degree and relevant experience in higher education procurement are required. The university promotes an equal opportunity workplace.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of demonstrated experience in higher education procurement processes.
• Experience in supervising purchasing departments.
• Interest and eligibility to work in the US without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee purchasing activities within the university.
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations governing purchasing.
• Provide leadership and supervision to professional staff.

Skills

Purchasing leadership

Procurement processes

Strategic sourcing

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration

Tools

Jaggaer

Banner ERP

Job description

Chief Purchasing Officer

Western Carolina University

Position Summary:

The primary location of this position is on-site in Cullowhee, NC. The role is exempt from the State of North Carolina Human Resources Act (EHRA). The primary purpose of the Director of Purchasing and Accounts Payable (Chief Purchasing Officer) is to direct and oversee the purchasing and payment activities, functions, programs, and processes within the university and to provide leadership and supervision to the departments professional staff. Serving as the university’s central procurement authority, the Director advances strategic sourcing and best‑value practices while interpreting and applying the laws, rules, and regulations governing the purchasing and accounts payable functions as promulgated by the state and federal governments, the UNC System, and the North Carolina Department of Administration.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required for this position:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Interested candidates must already be legally authorized to work in the United States and will not require any immigration sponsorship or support.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related business field. Three years of demonstrated experience in higher education procurement processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MBA
• Experience with procurement systems such as Jaggaer
• Experience with Banner ERP
• Experience with procurement card industry standards
• Prior purchasing department supervision

Position Type: Permanent Full‑Time

Special Instructions to Applicants:

To be considered, you must apply online. Attach a cover letter, current resume, and a list of professional references (including complete contact information with name, title, address, email, and phone) to complete the application.

For questions and additional information, please contact David Steinbicker at [e-mail].

AA/EOE

Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies, and the policies of The University of North Carolina. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call [phone] or email at [e-mail].

To apply, please visit: https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/34302